Head of Finance

Are you a commercially minded, ACCA/ICAEW-qualified finance leader ready to shape the future of a fast-growing global events business? This is a rare opportunity to join a market-leading organisation operating at the heart of the international defence community, working alongside senior naval and army figures through high-profile events across the UK and overseas. With turnover consistently growing and the business now approaching audit threshold, they are expanding their finance function and seeking a Head of Finance who can combine technical excellence with hands-on leadership.

The Opportunity

You will lead the day-to-day finance function, managing one direct report (with scope to grow the team), and act as a trusted advisor to the Founder & CEO. This role blends financial control, commercial insight, and operational leadership, ideal for someone who enjoys being close to the business and influencing strategic decisions. You’ll also represent the company at domestic and international events, acting as a brand ambassador and contributing to their mission of being the leading engagement platform for the global armed services landscape.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the finance function, ensuring accurate and timely reporting.
• Deliver financial updates to internal and external stakeholders.
• Manage month-end, year-end and UK VAT processes.
• Oversee external audit preparation and internal audit of income, costs, VAT and bank reconciliations.
• Finalise year-end accounts in line with FRS requirements.
• Implement and improve financial systems, policies and procedures (e.g., payment software, expense policies, financial management tools).
• Manage payroll processes.
• Support commercial decision-making with financial insight and analysis.
• Coach, develop and lead the finance team.
• Represent the business at events in the UK and internationally.

Essential Requirements

• ACCA / ICAEW qualified .
• Strong experience delivering financial updates to stakeholders.
• Advanced knowledge of Xero and Microsoft Office .
• External audit experience.
• Proven internal audit experience across income, costs, VAT and reconciliations.
• Month-end and year-end experience.
• UK VAT reconciliation experience.
• Strong understanding of FRS and financial statement preparation.
• Experience implementing financial systems and process improvements.
• Payroll management experience.
• Demonstrable leadership and team-development experience.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Highly organised, adaptable and able to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Ownership mindset with resilience and a growth mentality.

Desirable

• CIMA or ACA qualified / nearly qualified.
• Experience with EU VAT.
• Knowledge of tools such as DEXT, Fathom, Telleroo, Juro .
• Ability to attend conferences and events.
• Interest in the armed forces or maritime sector.

Benefits

• Competitive salary (flexible depending on experience).
• 28 days annual leave (including bank holidays).
• Two additional weeks off in December outside of annual leave.
• Regular team socials and events.
• Professional, supportive working environment.
• Strong commitment to continued professional development.
• Domestic and international travel opportunities.
• Excellent progression with a track record of promoting from within.
• Monday–Friday, 8:30am–5:00pm, office-based.

Apply Now

If you’re a driven finance leader who thrives in a dynamic, growing organisation and enjoys combining technical excellence with commercial impact, we’d love to hear from you.